Coffee-Colored Vomit: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Vomiting brown liquid?

Today, during a throat examination, I was sprayed with some anesthetic.
Due to the anesthetic, I ended up vomiting a significant amount of brownish liquid, mucus, and vomit.
At the time, the nurse quickly helped me clean up, and I didn't think much of it.
However, upon returning home and reflecting on it, I became a bit worried that the brown liquid I vomited might indicate gastrointestinal bleeding.
Two hours before vomiting, I had eaten some rice noodles in soup, fried toast, and drank a cup of cola.
During those two hours, I did not experience any stomach pain or discomfort.

Q1.
Doctor, could the brown liquid I vomited possibly be from the cola? (But after two hours, would the cola still be in my stomach?) I actually have iron deficiency anemia, and I underwent an endoscopy at the end of May this year, where no ulcers or bleeding were found, just a bit of gastritis.
Recently, I've been going to bed late, and when I lie down to sleep, I feel an empty sensation in my stomach, which leads to some stomach pain, prompting me to get up and take a stomach medication.
However, during the day, I do not feel any stomach discomfort.

Q2.
If it were indeed gastrointestinal bleeding, what other symptoms might I experience?
Q3.
Should I undergo any tests? Would it be another endoscopy? Can a stool occult blood test substitute for an endoscopy? Thank you.

jin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/03

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss.
This is not a mistake.
You may ask the examining physician/nurse at Changhua Hospital regarding your health.
Chen Shidian.

Reply Date: 2017/09/03

More Info

When it comes to the presence of coffee-colored vomit, it can be concerning, especially for someone with a history of gastrointestinal issues like iron deficiency anemia. Let's break down your questions and concerns.

Understanding Coffee-Colored Vomit
1. Possible Causes: Coffee-colored vomit typically indicates the presence of old blood, which can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, it can also be caused by other factors, such as the ingestion of certain foods or beverages. In your case, the coffee-colored vomit could potentially be influenced by the cola you consumed, although it is unlikely that cola would remain in your stomach for two hours without being digested or passed. The color could also be a result of the mucus mixed with the contents of your stomach, especially after the use of anesthetic agents during your throat examination.

2. Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Bleeding: If the vomit is indeed a result of gastrointestinal bleeding, you may experience additional symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Weakness or dizziness
- Changes in bowel habits, such as black or tarry stools
- Nausea or persistent vomiting
- Fatigue, which could be exacerbated by your existing anemia
3. When to Seek Help: If you notice persistent coffee-colored vomit, especially if accompanied by any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Gastrointestinal bleeding can be serious and requires prompt evaluation.

Recommended Actions
1. Medical Evaluation: Given your history of iron deficiency anemia and the recent episode of coffee-colored vomit, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend a physical examination and possibly further diagnostic tests.

2. Diagnostic Tests:
- Endoscopy (Gastroscopy): This is often the gold standard for evaluating the upper gastrointestinal tract. It allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, and can help identify sources of bleeding.

- Stool Occult Blood Test: This test can detect hidden blood in your stool, which may indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. However, it cannot replace the need for an endoscopy if there are significant concerns.

- Blood Tests: These can assess your hemoglobin levels and overall blood count to evaluate the extent of any potential blood loss.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close eye on any changes in your symptoms. If you experience worsening abdominal pain, increased frequency of vomiting, or any signs of shock (such as fainting or severe weakness), seek emergency medical care.

Conclusion
While coffee-colored vomit can be alarming, it is essential to consider the context in which it occurred. Given your recent throat examination and the absence of significant gastrointestinal discomfort prior to vomiting, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, due to your history of anemia and the potential for gastrointestinal issues, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide the necessary tests and guidance to ensure your health and safety. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to seek medical advice when in doubt.

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